Stefano Agostini, CEO of Nestle in the UK and Ireland, said: “We are demonstrating how we can, and will, contribute to a healthier future and that we take our public health responsibilities very seriously."

Jas Scott de Martinsville, head of Nestle’s global research and development, told how the project had been a “real challenge”, adding: “To create a confectionery product in just 12 months which has 30% less sugar than similar chocolate products and contains no artificial sweeteners is extraordinary.”

And other low-sugar products are also being considered for development.